Key rules
- You are 55 or older when you contribute.
- The home was owned by you or your spouse for at least 10 years, in Australia, and the sale is at least partly exempt from CGT under the main residence exemption (or would be).
- Up to $300,000 each, limited to the sale proceeds. Couples can contribute up to $600,000 between them.
- Contribute within 90 days of settlement, with the fund’s downsizer form.
- You can only use it once.
Things to weigh
- No total super balance test, but money in super then counts toward Age Pension assets tests if you are of pension age.
- You don’t actually have to buy a smaller home.
- The transfer balance cap ($2.1 million in 2026–27) still limits what can go into retirement phase.
See retirement planning and Age Pension basics.
Quick answers
How much can I put in as a downsizer contribution?
Up to $300,000 per person, per the ATO.
Sources
General advice warning. This article is general information only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Rules and thresholds change; check the sources above. Consider the relevant PDS and our Financial Services Guide and seek personal advice before acting. FinForce is authorised under Financial Force Pty Ltd AFSL 238337. Shay has been authorised since 18 October 2011.